UPDATE: Rick Torres Wednesday morning notified OIB he will be a candidate for City Council.
Of all the names floating for a City Council run perhaps the most intriguing entry would be two-time Republican mayoral candidate Rick Torres. His potent Black Rock following that flows daily into his tasty Harborview Market is chewing his ear off to run. Will he do it?
“No one knows Black Rock better than Rick Torres,” says Republican Town Chair John Slater. “He’s dedicated to Bridgeport and committed to turning around the broken government of the city.”
Torres certainly isn’t pining to serve on the city’s legislative and budget-making body, but a seat on the council would provide an alternative voice from the current all-Democratic makeup and provide Torres a platform, if elected, to highlight spending and budget reforms in the city, something he has spoken out about for years. And who knows, maybe even bring along another Republican on the council. No final word yet on other GOP council candidates for the 130th District.
Bridgeport has 10 council districts with two representatives in each. The council’s 130th District is represented by Democrats Sue Brannelly, who serves as co-chair of the Budget and Appropriations Committee and newcomer Steve Stafstrom, an attorney, whose uncle John Stafstrom once served as head of the party and still holds considerable influence. Steve Stafstrom replaced Marty McCarthy, who resigned because of business and family demands, on the council a few months ago.
Black Rockers are cranky these days about spending, taxes, services as well as conflicts of interests such as city employees serving on the legislative body. It’s the highest turnout area of Bridgeport that includes the most Republicans in a city with a meager GOP voice. GOP Chair John Slater is trying to change that this election cycle in an effort to reclaim the state-required, minority-party representation spots on the Board of Education occupied by members of the Connecticut Working Families Party.
The 130th District is a tale of two constituencies: the highly active Black Rockers west of Ellsworth Street featuring a high percentage of owner-occupied homes paying higher taxes including waterfront properties along St. Mary’s by-the-Sea. They vote at Black Rock School. East of Ellsworth features a higher proportion of working-class electors including the heavily Democratic P.T. Barnum Apartments that has historically served as a safety net in close races for Democratic operatives led by District Leader Dan Roach. They generally vote at Longfellow School, now scheduled for reconstruction, so likely the Aquaculture School this election cycle.
Torres is a proven vote-getter at Black Rock School. In the November 2011 election for mayor in which Bill Finch captured his second, four-year term, Torres defeated Finch 698 to 439 at Black Rock School. At Longfellow it was Finch 403 to 123. Torres carried the district’s two precincts combined on the machines. Finch, as a result of absentee ballots, however, carried the district in total 842 to 821.
Torres is filtering other factors into his decision. He’s contemplating a challenge of Democratic State Senator Anthony Musto in the city-suburban 22nd Senate District in 2014. He also wants to make sure, if he runs for council, he has a strong running mate who can reach across all constituencies in a diverse district.
If Rick Torres runs for City Council he changes the dynamic of that race. The respective political parties will endorse candidates for City Council and school board next week. Primaries will take place in September. The general election in November.
I would give strong odds the majority of Black Rockers living west of Ellsworth Street in owner-occupied homes are also “working-class electors.”
flub, I’d bet folks east of Ellsworth would trade wages with folks west of Ellsworth in a second.
Len, you might want to add another economic dividing line is north of Fairfield Ave unless things have changed in the last two months. The north side of Ffld Ave is also very blue collar.
Could we not get into one of Finch’s class warfare arguments here?? Really. Wherever you live in this city, whatever you’re earning–ever rising taxes, no economic development and the whole education reform debacle this Finch administration has brought over the last five years is the issue. His favorite sport is pitting what he thinks are the haves against the have-nots. Perfect escape for someone with nothing else to offer.
Hear, hear! Very well said, Baffled.
Depends how far west, flub. Parts of BR west of Ellsworth get pretty ritzy. go take a look at Shays’ former digs. The last thing B’port or CT needs is Rick Torres who went Tea Party during the last few years. Just look at the gridlock in DC if you want Torres on the council.
BRG, I believe in small government. I support anyone who shares that view. I would think in a city that flirts with bankruptcy, that would be a virtuous position. I am happy to share my views with the world. My views don’t change according to the audience with whom I speak. Please feel free to ask me my stance on any issue.
Actually Rick, that doesn’t fly in the real world. Especially in a city like Bridgeport where you have so many people living below the poverty line. That may fly in a town like Easton where you have a largely upper middle class population. Unless you want to throw people out in the street … which I don’t think you would want to do. Even your Ayn Rand went on Social Security right before she died.
Rick mentioned a belief in small government. He probably would be happy to apply the word ‘smaller’ as well.
You counter with a comment about Social Security and Ayn Rand. What is your point? Do most of us have any choice in whether we sign up for Social Security or not when we first work? (With the exception of some public-safety employees, some religious workers, etc.) So you make a payment and your employer makes a payment for 30 years each payday, and you happen to die at age 55 then all of those funds will benefit someone else since you were too young for retirement income, were still working and therefore not disabled and have no dependents as survivors. It’s an intergenerational transfer of funds in the form of a benefit plan, but you may earn a lot less than you put in as in the example I provided or a lot more if you live to age 95 for example.
You claim to have earned a Masters in Business Administration. Ever run your own business? Successfully? It’s like earning an MBA the hard way since the mistakes you make are the tests you learn and the money you spend that turns little value is like tuition. Not easy. Not a 40-hour week, with benefits, vacation days, sick time, etc., etc. Well Rick and Michele fly in the real world daily. And they help neighbors and other in trouble.
So poverty line incomes don’t get you into Easton, do they? And therefore your point is? Share your view on why Rick Torres, a man of integrity, but not of few words is a less better choice than current City Council representatives who fail to answer fiscal questions in a full, timely and responsible manner or alternatively may be well schooled but by nature of their occupation and position may need to recuse themselves in the future if they happen to become elected rather than appointed.
Rick is on the spot every day he works to respond to the public relative to his business and he does so most days with a smile on his face and a greeting to those he meets. That self-employed business model is a great one for people trying to raise their status, their income, their worldly assets, etc. And Rick Torres just might raise issues on the Council that are allowed to pass currently. Wouldn’t that be interesting if he declined to vote on issues that were not supplied with early and adequate info? A change? A healthy change for taxpayers and those who long for fiscally responsible governance? Interesting times? Of course, you have to campaign hard and win, don’t you? Time will tell.
John Marshall Lee, I want you to think hard before you answer. Do you believe what Rick Torres said when he stated, “I have a very good Biology degree from Wash U. in St. Louis. That degree allows me to state unequivocally that blacks and whites are for the most part statistically genetically identical on the inside. The outside, our skin and hair, that is different and there are good adaptation reasons for those differences. However, blacks fail miserably relative to whites. Example: 5X the number in jail. 20X the dropout rates.”
JML, that is the most ludicrous thing you have said. Because Rick runs a coffee shop his viewpoints are somehow more relevant than mine … REALLY? Your man of integrity made a whole bunch of statements many find offensive. My point about Ayn Rand was someone who was opposed to it went on it. Her ideas didn’t work in the real world and still don’t unless maybe you are one of the Koch Brothers. Sorry John but not everyone is going to run their own business, unless everyone working at the business is an owner. Sorry JML but running a coffee shop is not the same as running a city or a state or a large corporation. And a campaign based mainly on my taxes are too high and I hate the government is a recipe for disaster. Maybe you need a nap.
And JML, I can think of a number of business owners in B’port who do the same thing running their businesses just like Rick does who I am sure you would love to run out of town on a rail. And the fact is I think questioning the tea party stuff is a perfectly valid issue.
BRG: Why do you even care? You should get involved in Arizona where your voice could actually make a difference. All you do here is cast aspersions at anyone who has done politically and/or financially better than you. It is really getting old, and is über-boring to read. Lennie has attempted to make this blog a forum for the exchange of fresh ideas and to connect what is largely a disconnected City. This City is no longer a going concern for you, no matter how hard you try to keep it so, and you certainly are no more relevant now than you were when you lived here.
Really Mustang? Are you now in charge of who can comment on current affairs in Bridgeport? Last I heard freedom of speech was not limited to where you are registered to vote. As to whether I am casting aspersions I wasn’t aware you can’t criticize someone based on their financial status. Have we become a feudal state? There is nothing fresh about your criticism of me.
I agree, BRG. Sally is just stating what everyone on here thinks of you, and have said; nothing new or fresh for anyone to say to your stale bitter rants. You should be flattered she even engaged you, as most of us ignore you. Not out of disrespect, but because you have abandoned your beloved Bridgeport. You are the past, we are the future; you have given up, we are sticking around working to make real change. But as usual, the flying monkey does the bidding of the evil witch … Kind’a rhymes with Finch?
So if someone once lived in the city and gives an opinion that is viewed as unwarranted and abandonment, therefore a former citizen cannot opine.
However, you’re fine with those who have never lived in the city and never will live in the city working, sometimes behind the scenes, to control politics, education and government. Is that correct?
Many call the shots who do not pay taxes. I would assume then you would not appreciate their involvement or opinions in any way related to Bridgeport matters.
Meghan Lowney of Fairfield who works for Greenwich billionaire Steve Mandell orchestrated the state takeover of the BOE.
Paul Timpanelli is the head of the Business Council, lives in Trumbull.
Also two out-of-state appointed BOE members were:
David Norton, lives in Pound Ridge NY
Judith Bankowski lives in Wallingford.
Equal indignation for ALL!
jake, you’ll hear a different argument from folks in Fairfield County who maintain their hard-earned tax dollars finance city schools. They maintain 85 percent of city school money comes from the state so they have skin in the game. By the way, we welcome opinions, thoughts, observations from folks inside and outside the state’s largest city.
dog, let them write here and we will treat them according to their lot. 🙂
Barb, I enjoyed your pro-Vallas comments on the CT Post blog. In it you praised Tom Mulligan for standing up to the Democratic members of the Board of Ed who according to you were trying to get rid of Vallas. Are you aware Tom Mulligan is a Democrat and is with the organization Democrats? Are you not aware the Democratic majority on the Board were the ones who foisted Vallas on Bridgeport schools? I particularly enjoyed your follow-up comments where you exhorted Bridgeport voters to make sure they knew about the candidates before they voted. Thank you for the belly laughs … you should write for Saturday Night Live.
Yes, I am. You did not get the memo because you no longer live here.
You are a broken record player
Give ’em hell, Rick!
Rick Torres needs to be on the council. Who is the Calamarian he has to unseat?
*** Torres would be a great devil’s advocate on the city council, not only for the GOP but for Bpt citizens looking for change in general. *** HERE WE GO! ***
Torres got a little wacky a couple of weeks ago when he announced his new “ministry” which he’s calling “I am black inside” expressing his “solidarity with the black man and belief that black people are held down by Government.” Kind of self-centered and condescending if you ask me.
And this remark is coming from the self-proclaimed “Bridgeport Celebrity Reporter?” Most Excellent!
LOL, You got that right, Pussy Galore.
I would say this Bond Girl is more of a Honey Ryder …
You know what, Bepo? I almost registered as Dr. Christmas Jones. After all you know what James Bond says about Christmas. 😉 I wouldn’t be surprised if this comment string took a turn towards the south now …
The World is Not Enough, speaking about Russia, Snowden’s New home. Discuss … lol
Rick Torres, tell us more about this “new ministry.”
Rick will soon be on Bridgeport Now to give you more details. We will announce in advance.
It’s the usual tea party nonsense he has been spewing for the last few years. He thinks anyone who takes govt aid is doomed. Kind of funny coming from someone who lived in govt housing and brags about his successful business.
And if someone thinks that comment is bitter, not at all. Just making an observation Torres’ comments about govt aid didn’t seem to be true in his case.
Bit of an execration there, BRGuy. Did you see the show? Not anyone who takes government aid is doomed. I would think someone who lived the life of government assistance as a young man and was able to work his way out to the “American Dream” might know what he is talking about. I have never had the experience, so my ideas and opinions would be simply conjecture. The government (elected officials) create theses Utopias (in their minds) where people less advantaged (oops, underserved) can live–yet they would never live there. The few officials who have documented living for a week or two on the SNAP food budget talked about how hard it was, how hungry they were, yet nothing is done to improve the program. I say, a person who lived the life for 20+ years has some credibility on the issue.
Jennifer, you are making my point. In fact govt assistance helped keep food on the table and a roof over his head growing up. It is hard to see how that hindered him. As for improving the SNAP program I agree … And it basically a good program but like you said there is room for improvement. Yet without some of these programs, as poor as some of these living conditions are, many people might be out on the street.
BRGuy, my point is someone who has lived the life has ideas for improvements because they have walked the walk–improvements need to be made to make it easier for more Rick Torres-like successes. From meetings I have sat on, listening to the current residents, changes are being begged for and falling on deaf ears. Getting the conversation started with an experienced graduate of the system–of how to make it easier to leave, or more efficient and productive to live there seems like a good start. No easy answers, no one-size-fits-all, but something has got to change for the better–and soon.
Jennifer, unless Rick is no longer an advocate of the Tea Party Ayn Rand philosophy he has adopted, he does not believe in any govt help at all. He has repeatedly even spoken out against minimum wage laws, and I don’t mean against increases.
Ron, I grew up in the Evergreen Garden Apartments (now Stop ‘n’ Shop in Black Rock). By the grace of God I have a very good Biology degree from Wash U. in St. Louis. That degree allows me to state unequivocally that blacks and whites are for the most part statistically genetically identical on the inside. The outside, our skin and hair, that is different and there are good adaptation reasons for those differences. However, blacks fail miserably relative to whites. Example: 5X the number in jail. 20X the dropout rates.
So if we are genetically identical, then what’s the problem? I wanted to know. My ministry answers that question and I share it with pastors who are interested in hearing my conclusions.
All mankind is created equally regardless of race, creed or color. What life path a person chooses is their own free will. One’s skin color or hair is also genetic, so I’m confused when you state it is due to adaptation. Can you expound a bit on your ministry? I believe the message you plan to share with local clergy is already a foregone conclusion.
Let me get this straight, when Evergreen Apartments was around, I never heard anyone say the Evergreens nor P.T. nearby was part of or in Black Rock. “… the Evergreen Garden Apartments (now Stop ‘n’ Shop in Black Rock) …”
I first moved to BR in 1980. Monroe St. and Evergreen were still there then. I always referred to it as BR.
Rick Torres, let’s start with discrimination and racism, slavery poll taxes and literacy tests, please tell me when did blacks become equal with whites? Rick, share your ministry you are going to share with pastors to the voters and readers on OIB.
Yes Ron, America has been and is wrong on so many things. I cannot imagine what it is like to walk in your shoes, but I would like to know and do whatever I can to help move this country into a more live-and-let-live society. I am very grateful to you for being open to discussion and hearing your point of view. And you still have not answered my question, and I would so appreciate it if you would.
Rick Torres, your comments are asinine, and are an insult to blacks.
Ron, please help me understand what is asinine and insulting, I do sincerely wish to know. Growing up on a farm in a very homogeneous environment, I am not always aware of what is insulting to people, and the last thing I wish to do is make statements that can be considered insulting … And your insight could help educate me. Thank you.
Jennifer Buchanan, I want you to think hard before you answer, do you believe what Rick Torres said when he stated, “I have a very good Biology degree from Wash U. in St. Louis. That degree allows me to state unequivocally that blacks and whites are for the most part statistically genetically identical on the inside. The outside, our skin and hair, that is different and there are good adaptation reasons for those differences. However, blacks fail miserably relative to whites. Example: 5X the number in jail. 20X the dropout rates.”
Ron,
I believe you answered my question with a question, and I have a pass/fail test to take with you–this time I am ignoring my usual push back to you, and I will answer your question.
Wash U is a very good university and Rick has a degree. I believe in creation (everything came from one tiny God-created atom) and humans have evolved over time to adapt to their environment. I believe the first known human is from Africa (cannot remember if it is Kenya or Tanzania) according to science, so yes, I believe we all have the same basic human genetic makeup. I believe the statistics support the statement of the number of blacks in jail vs. the number of whites, and the number of school dropouts of blacks vs. whites. I support the statement these two statistics can be viewed as failure (to be clear, I am not assigning blame to anyone). I will go one step further and state I also believe the perception of the African (black) race being inferior was started and spread worldwide at the start of the Atlantic slave trade from the 16 – 19th century. The business was too lucrative to allow anyone involved in the business needing controlled, cheap labor to assign equal human status to African slaves because of their own economic needs. I find it ironic this country of freedom and democracy was dependent on slave labor, and some of the writers of All Men Are Created Equal were in fact slave owners. I believe we have centuries of a universal message African blacks were inferior and to be feared, and this message must be corrected. Figuring out how to make the world better is hard work. What works in theory does not often work in practice, and angrily insisting it should work does not make it work.
I believe Rick’s heart is in the right place. I believe an open, honest dialog is the best place to start. I believe it must involve all races, and all cards on the table. I believe ignorance is usually from lack of knowledge or wrong information being repeated. The more we share, the less ignorant we all can become.
If I am missing something or am wrong, please do help me understand from your point of view.
Jennifer Buchanan, you have overlooked American history. Let me start with the power of the US Supreme Court and their laws, they affected blacks nationwide. Here are just three cases.
Dred Scott vs. Sandford (1857). Sandford, Dred Scott’s master, claimed Scott could not be a citizen of the United States because of his race. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that slaves of African descent in the United States could not be citizens under the Constitution. The infamous, oft-quoted conclusion of the Supreme Court’s decision, written by Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, was current or former slaves and their descendants had “no rights which the white man was bound to respect.”
Plessy vs. Ferguson (1896). Louisiana resident Homer Adolf Plessy, a seven-eighths Caucasian man, was arrested for refusing to move from a white-only train car. The court ruled that segregation was legal as long as it was “separate but equal.”
Brown vs. Board of Education (1954). Black children were unable to attend schools with white children because of the “separate but equal” ruling. The court reversed the ruling because they felt this was unequal in regards to public education.
Jennifer, I am sure you read my other posts about things Rick said about Muslim Americans I also found troubling in someone who wants to hold public office … and Ron they are not just an insult to Blacks … they should be insulting to everyone.
I am willing to listen to any candidate who will unseat rubber stamp Brannelly and the machine-appointed Steve “recuse myself” Stafstrom. Let’s make the administration work for its votes when they try to screw us in the future.
There are four Republicans on this blog who are missing from this post. I would like to know what David Walker, Marc Delmonico, Joe Larcheveque and Jennifer Buchanan think. Finally, a Republican is mentioned and no cheerleading? No excitement? Black Rock, the strongest Republican concentration with the most involved constituency. Where is the excitement? Curious … No?
Steven Auerbach, now you know David Walker will say he is not a Republican and he stands on the yellow line in the middle of the road so he can get hit from both ways.
Steve, Rick has my complete support – always has, always will.
You are a loyalist. Bravo. Rick Torres is a very nice man. I am not in Black Rock. As JML would say, Time will tell.
Nope, more of a realist …
About as f-ing stupid as those of you liberals who watch CNN, and all of the other left garbage stations. I guess if you are a minority, as I am and watch Fox News, or are a commentator on Fox, then you’re a sellout. My bad … you said we’re “pretty” stupid. Is that your point, Auerbach? People like you continue to vote for the machine’s candidate and wonder why Bridgeport is screwed.
PHANTOM I DO NOT QUESTION AFRICAN AMERICAN CONSERVATIVES. I QUESTION THE OBVIOUS AND EMBARRASSING CHANGE IN FOX NEWS IN THE COURSE OF TWO weeks they have incorporated African Americans on panels in every newscast and changed the face. Yes it is a good thing. Having black representation does not change their platform and if you are a minority and proud conservative then come out of the closet. The Republicans need as many of you as possible to help their agenda. I saw Fox New more than Cnn. My info about Fox is first hand not an MSNBC commentary. And Phantom I am always happy to be the instigator of conversation on this blog. This was a missed opportunity to talk about your candidate Rick Torres. It was your decision not to. Would you care to comment on Rick Torres?
Sat…watch
There is no closet. I am conservative to the core. As for Torres, I wish him well. Sadly he has to deal with the corrupt politicians who collect absentee ballots from the elderly, only after forcing their vote for the machine’s candidate. The same corrupt officials who are currently on a mission to find a fall guy (Ricci) for their stealing more taxpayer funds for a driveway. Shame on the fools who continue to vote for these frauds and thieves.
Phantom, I respect your opinion. Now without attacking the Democratic machine, tell me why you support Rick Torres. I know he is respected and owns a business. Now tell me why he should replace the current candidates in Black Rock, and finally, do you always vote Republican?
Steve, locally I vote either way. Nationally it’s usually for the most conservative candidate. As for Torres, I’ve met him and find him very personable. He seems to be fiscally conservative and wants to hold the line on taxes. He is not beholden to Madison Avenue and let’s face it, a voice from the right side of the table is badly needed.
You may be right … if you are in Black Rock, get busy!
Thanks, Steve. No hard feelings. By the way, I hope you pardon your pun … “may be right.” LOL
Really Phantom … you find Torres personable so that is one of your main reasons for voting for him. I have had people tell me they couldn’t understand why I didn’t support Finch because “he is a nice guy.” It’s a free country and you can vote for someone if you think he likes potato chips … but I don’t think that’s a good reason to vote for someone. Just my two cents worth which I am sure JML will investigate in excruciating detail.
Phantom and Steven, see the attached article. A bit interesting, goes with what you guys are saying.
www .townhall.com/tipsheet/katiepavlich/2013/07/17/naacp-rejects-black-conservatives-from-national-conference-n1642861
Marc, Fox News reporter and anti Obama author, yeah I would keep her out. The way way the conservatives kept two gay organizations Log Cabin Republicans and Go Proud, both organizations are for gay rights and Republican … Republicans just keep looking BTW that was not reported on Fox News. It was however reported in the Wall Street Journal, CNN, MSNBC, Washington Post, Business week and NPR as well as Time as well as all over the internet. You need to start getting your news from more reliable sources. There was a time when conservatives were a very big part of the NAACP. Those days are long ago and aren’t returning anytime soon.
Steve, Town Hall Tipsheet is such a right-wing rag it makes Fox News look like Rachel Maddow.
Steven,
I hardly believe MSNBC, The New York Times and CNN are straight down the middle news outlets. Now I will agree with you on the WSJ. Your beloved news organizations dropped the ball on Benghazi. Hardly mentioned … of course it could have hurt their guy during the election, so they chose not to report it. The only reason they are mentioning the IRS and NSA now is to keep the heat off Hillary for 2016, and Obama is on his way out … not soon enough I may add.
Honestly Marc? Fox news spoke about Benghazi every day 24/7. It did not work for you then and it will not now. What happened in Benghazi was unfortunate. I agree with Clinton, get over it. People die every day. The people who worked for the consulate knew their jobs were dangerous and they got paid handsomely as well as made a contribution. They are gone, we move on. Better we discuss gun control and the horrors cornerstone and the murders in movie theaters or the murder in Norwalk and Bridgeport that happened today. At what point Marc does your party acknowledge you are fighting a losing battle? You hold on to a sad moment in history and think you can derail an election? Really? You have someone to go against Hillary who is electable? There will not be a candidate from your party who will be acceptable to the youth of this country for 10 years and by then old white evangelicals will be a small minority and be the equivalent of the Westboro Church, a hate-mongering group.
Steven,
Get over it? Really? Our embassy was attacked, and our ambassador killed, plus three other men … are you serious? Our embassy is sovereign ground. Well yes, I am not surprised Clinton said that … they did nothing about the Cole, WTC 1 and the Khobar Towers. We will have a good candidate, no worries, we will keep the smartest woman in the world out of office.
Well, as long as abortion is the male-dominated Republican party agenda sweeping the country these days I will assume it will be the black, white, Jewish, Christian and lesbian woman who will have to stand their ground. It will definitely be the women who will decide the next election. Keeping the smartest woman out of the Whitehouse may be as silly a platform as the mantra of making Obama a one-term president. Marc you really need to stop Ypsilanti Obama rants. He is the President and Romney is where? Gingrich wanted to build a colony on the moon? Rand Paul and the tea party/libertarians will control the next election. There will not be a Reganesque Republican for years because you guys are afraid to be bold. You cater to the religious right and you will continue this downward spiral.
If I may be so bold as to speak for the RTC officers, Rick has the full support of the Bridgeport Republicans and we are extremely excited to once again have such an intelligent, dynamic and in-touch candidate. Rick has been good for Bridgeport as a business owner, community leader and citizen. We are anxious to see the things he’ll be able to accomplish as a Council member.
Let me remind the OIBers about the last great Republican City Council member from the Black Rock; Donna Curren.
On the night before Election Day Donna voted against another bad development plan for Steel Point. She was proven right over time since nothing has still happened on that property. Even for people who are going to say today things are moving forward the only money being spent on Steal Point is federal and city funds.
However, John Fabrizi was able to twist the facts and robo-call the district claiming she was against developing Steal Point. She lost even though time has proven her right.
Without knowing what Rick Torres’ new-found religion might be, if it can be easily twisted into something sounding racist, Rick’s fate might be the same as Donna C. Just something to be aware of.
Donna Curren gone for voting against Steelepointe? GOOD. Caruso, Moore and Gomes also not supportive … Gone … next?
Did Rick Torres really say that about black people and a new ministry? I am going to throw up. THE NEW REPUBLICAN PARTY AND FOX NEWS PLAYBOOK. PLAY UP THE PARTY OF LINCOLN AND HAVE A SLEW OF AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMENTATORS ON EVERY PANEL IN EVERY TIME SLOT. How ignorant do they assume the voting public can be? Obviously, pretty fucking stupid. DID I SAY THAT??? Yes I did.
Steve, you really should hear what Rick has to say–happy to connect you with him. jhvb51@gmail.com
Is jhvb an alias? I am still waiting for my cookie at Harborview. PROMISES PROMISES.
Waiting for you to set the date so we can steal from The Man! Jhvb is my email address.
He really said that, Steve. If his YouTubes from the Congressional race are still up check out what he said about Muslims. I don’t think he is racist but the comments sure sound that way and indicate a certain tone deafness that is disturbing in someone who wants to hold public office.
Bob, to be clear, Rick called it a ministry, not a new religion. And your points–right on the money!
Jennifer Buchanan, would you or Rick be clear with what Rick called a ministry?
I cannot speak for Rick, but I know he would speak to you. Please send me an email and I will send you Rick’s phone number. 203-984-7422
Well, that is my phone number! jhvb51@gmail.com! It must be the heat.
It is surprising Rick Torres is reading this. It would be silly to think otherwise. It is his opportunity to speak for himself. Why would anyone go through Jennifer Buchanan? No offense intended Jennifer. I am not reading any real pro-Torres platforms nor are regular Republican bloggers jumping on the bandwagon. So like Mackey, I want to know here on this blog Rick’s response or his son who is a blogger here. If this blog is an indication of his popularity for a run it doesn’t look promising. But I do wish him good luck.
Actually, Rick does not usually read this blog. I do not share anyone’s number without their permission. I just happen to have his number, however, he is at Harborview Market seven days a week, so no need to go through me, just trying to make introductions for anyone interested. No offense taken!
Jennifer Buchanan, with all due respect to you, Rick Torres is a long-time politician and I’m sure he knows this topic is him running for some elected office, and he is following these comments about him. If he is not then he is a piss-poor politician.
Ditto.
I know a lot of local elected officials swear they do not read this blog, but do recall, this form of public opinion was not the norm a few years ago, working to get all the delegation who will listen and contenders up to speed and engaged.
Jennifer Buchanan, President Obama has shown the way with reaching out to voters in every way possible. Times have changed and a candidate needs to be on top of all ways to communicate with the voters.
Jennifer, I’ve had a number of local elected officials tell me they never read OIB and then proceed to list all the things they don’t like about it. Hmmm …
Yes Lennie, same here with officials saying they do not read this, then discuss in detail what is said. Yes Ron, you are correct–stay tuned for Rick to weigh in once he is officially registered.
Ron, when Obama opens his mouth … good chance it is not true.
Marc, tell me what did “W” Bush do besides start two wars not paid for, the downfall of banks, housing and never vetoed a single spending bill by Republicans?
Ron, Bush told your boys Barney Frank and Chris Dodd the lending practices initiated by the Democrats (everybody should own a home) will cause a financial crisis. Guess what Ron, your boys did not listen … plus your boy Dodd had a few nice deals from Countrywide so here you have it. As for the wars … we should have been out of there a long time ago, they do not appreciate what we did for them.
Marc Delmonico, the entire American economy collapse under “W” Bush, he gave an open door to the pharmaceutical industry to jack up prices, started two wars that he didn’t pay for and you want more of that?
Marc, with all due respect. This is your opportunity to support Rick Torres, a Republican. Attacking Obama? How is that working for you?
Oh yeah Ron, The price of aspirin killed the economy! Look to the lawyers, how about a little tort reform, or maybe even let insurance companies compete across state lines. Do not blame the drug companies, I do believe they are keeping many people alive.
Marc Delmonico, you have never reply about NOT paying for two wars or NOT paying for those tax cuts.
Hey Ron, Bush was standing on the fire truck at Ground Zero … what did you say? Let’s let them kill Americans … and not respond … I guess we could have done like Clinton and ignored it.
Marc Delmonico, and it was on Obama’s watch who killed the person who attacked Ground Zero.
Ron, surely you do not believe one thing Obama did besides say “Shoot” led to his killing … I am sure the interrogation methods Obama voted against helped us find him. According to your view, then Obama is responsible for everything after he took the oath of office … like 8% unemployment, stalled economy, rising gas prices, failing economy, dividing the USA, and yes, four Americans killed in Libya while he was on campaign stops, and making up the film story.
Bush on the fire truck? Is that supposed to be courage? Several thousand Americans died in Iraq in a needless war that left large numbers of veterans seriously disabled and you are going to talk about Benghazi? Do you get all your talking points from Rush Limbaugh? Ever think this is why Republicans don’t do well in Bridgeport? Moderate Republicans used to get elected.
Or about the billions it will cost to take care of the seriously disabled vets.
From a Black Rock Facebook Page … Not my post.
Speaking as an independent voter, I have always been able to imagine Rick’s approach to Bridgeport’s biggest ills. Many problems simply would not be expectable to him. I picture Rick out himself in the city’s largest plow truck picking up the drivers left stranded in the storm to get the job done. I know he would not sit back and watch the public school system in Bridgeport fail our kids year after year. I also know that he would listen and learn from the smartest minds in the country when it came to fiscal responsibility and promoting our city’s new image. It would be a new day for Bridgeport ending the long reign of the same cast of characters (outside of Black Rock representation) that maintain our reputation as the armpit of the county.
Next, they will suggest Mary-Jane Foster is running for council.
In answering your earlier question, about as f-ing stupid as those of you liberals who watch CNN, and all of the other left garbage stations. I guess if you are a minority, as I am and watch Fox News, or are a commentator on Fox, then you’re a sellout. My bad … you said we’re “pretty” stupid. Is that your point, Auerbach? People like you continue to vote for the machine’s candidate and wonder why Bridgeport is screwed.
Is this déjà vu? I could swear Phantom said that before verbatim.
If she ran there’s a good possibility she would win. Just my opinion.
Steve,
“Next, THEY will suggest?” What are you talking about? Who are you talking about? You are posting so tell us what you meant, please?
If Rick runs for office this fall, and there is an if I am told, isn’t it up to him rather than Ron, Lennie or you asking him to come up with ‘whatever’ at your command? As you put it, it is his opportunity and his option to comment when he is ready. He is a businessman, self-employed with a family business with local employees, and the buck stops with Michele and Rick. He is not free part- or full-time to plug into OIB at any moment. He and his family participate in numerous City activities. He is a good neighbor to many especially people new to the neighborhood.
If he throws his hat fully in the ring, it would seem to be a most serious challenge to the current Council members. And that would be interesting because of the role Sue Brannelly has assumed as Co-chair of Budget and Appropriations, a most responsible position, but one in which her actual activities and responsiveness to City budget issues has been disappointing. Time will tell.
JML, it was a laconic post. Referring to the rumor mill in suggesting Torres, next Mary-Jane or perhaps yourself and David Walker. I thought the post was clear. I hope it is now.
I can’t help but wonder why Rick Torres is establishing a ministry. Could it be for tax-exempt status?
I think he is using the definition of ministry as something that serves as an agency, instrument or means. I very much doubt a religious, church or tax-exempt status is in play.
Godiva2011,
Reverend Moales has family, business, board of education and mortgage obligations on his mind at the moment in addition to ministry to a large congregation. The CT Post noted many of the properties are not taxpaying. Perhaps you have some thoughts about ‘tax exempt status’ in Bridgeport by religious or no-for-profit groups? I would like to hear your ideas if you have some. Time will tell.
If it is a bona fide ministry or nonprofit organization with a valid 401(c)(3), then I see no problem. (I posted on the other forum regarding Rev. Moales.) This status qualifies as tax-exempt, however, creditors may pursue for what’s owed to them. As you know, properties purchased under the umbrella of the 401(c)(3) are considered tax exempt. I won’t single out any one organization, but without a doubt, some abuse takes place. I’m probably not telling you anything you don’t already know.
JML, he is one of the reasons Vallas is still in Bridgeport pending the outcome of the Supreme Court case. You should be troubled by more than the tax-free status, like all the money the Board of Ed has been paying out to schools controlled by his “church.” I am sure you read about how he mentioned his millionaire status. Certainly you should find this intriguing, you old financial super sleuth.
BRG, are you into half-truth land once again, with very careful statements?
For instance “like all the money the Board of Ed has been paying out to schools controlled by his “church,” what is your reference in this case?
Are you referring to programs that are Federal programs with Federal money and strictly as a pass-through steward for our local BOE? Are these for preschool youth? With a tip of the cap from your proclaimed “financial super sleuth,” sometimes it takes some good questions to get to the real facts of a situation. And that does take a little longer than cosmic character defamation, but if you intend to live in a community and work for it, maybe it’s worthwhile to do the homework, search out good answers to questions and come to a better understanding of the issues and concerns.
By the way you have been posting at the end of discussions that offer no reply opportunity in continuity. Vallas is not perfect but he is good, experienced in entering dysfunctional situations and caring to get the youth a better chance than they have had before he came. And Rick Torres, in a run for City Council, will find his activities as a small business owner depending on building daily clientele, paying his bills and listening to the current stories in the community much more helpful to serving the interests of voter representation than political theory. And if joined by another experienced neighborhood candidate with another support base, that can provide a most interesting contest, despite the views of Arizona Life. What Bridgeport persona of the past 20 years or so did you or would you have supported? What was their political theory (if you knew it in advance)? Did they live up or down to it? What was their track record? This is a new year, it seems. Time will tell.
Steven,
Sorry I have not posted my thoughts. I have been busy working so I can pay my taxes to support BRG and the other 46%. Anyway, Rick Torres would be a great voice on the City Council … I mean he actually has business experience, and has created something in his life. He is not living off the city coffers, he is independent, knows his way around a financial statement, and I know he would love this city to live up to its true potential, instead of a trough for the DTC to feed out of.
Excellent response!
Thanks, Steven.
I feel Rick Torres could make a significant contribution to city government as a member of the city council if he can work within the constraints of a legislative body.
His election campaign, though, will be targeted by the DTC. They will not tolerate a threat to their total control of the city council. Rick’s presence could encourage others to speak up.
Run Rick, Run; please.
This makes me so happy!! Run Rick, Run!
Although I don’t proffer my words on here very often, all of these new developments have piqued my OIB interest!
On Rick running for City Council: Has he made an official statement yet? Will he be running individually or as part of a slate? Has anybody considered if and how his candidacy will impact the school board elections?
The RTC votes on the slate on Friday (I think) and the other candidates have not been announced. As to school board election, Democrats I know have been begging the Republicans to get good candidates to run–fingers crossed for Friday!
Could Rick Torres’ response to Ron Mackey be that single moment that ends a political career? Of the 92 posts I am surprised Mackey and BRG were the two he chose to respond to. Now I wonder what his staunch supporters think of his Biology degree and public premise. Personally, I find it strange, disturbing and as Belo said, wacky. I could be wrong. I doubt it. It is a Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachmann moment.
We found his Achilles heel, Steve. I would love to hear him explain some of his comments about Muslims he made when he ran for Congress. He said in a video and Rick can correct me if I am recalling this wrong, we needed a special dialogue with Muslims as if they were somehow less loyal to this country than any other group. As an American and a Jew I find comments like this about religious minorities troubling as I do comments about African Americans.
I think if I were living in BR at election time I would do as I did last time and register as a write-in candidate so I could cast a protest vote or maybe even as a petition candidate because I find the choice of two machine candidates or Rick Torres who last time was not a choice I relish. Rick, while he would not be part of a corrupt machine, has stated economic development views about B’port that were not that much different than Finch’s. And Finch’s idea of economic development is a tax base largely based on residential and retail, which is proving to be a disaster in many ways.
Given a choice between Brannelly and Stafstrom who are Finchites and Rick the Tea Party ideologue, I would have to register as a write-in candidate and cast a vote for myself … or go for it and take out a petition. I am surprised the local GOP is not mentioning running John Weldon who ran last time and doesn’t seem to be a Tea Party ideologue. The GOP has been irrelevant in Bridgeport for years with the exception of moderate Chris Shays. This is because they have thrown the renowned New England moderate Republicanism to the wind and espouse views on economic development not that different from the Finch machine. Even Ronald Reagan would be called a leftist by some modern-day GOP conservatives.
Of course that would be if I were living in Black Rock, which I am not at the current time.
And how does tea party ideology and Finch’s economic development make any sense? It doesn’t.
Steven–I find his posting regarding the purpose of his ministry a bit peculiar also. We all know everyone is created equally, so him relaying that to local clergy via his ministry is pointless. I’d like to have him expound more on his mission statement and goals rather than deliver a message about something we all already know.
Godiva, either way his public comments are damaging for a political campaign. I do not need to hear any more on his epiphany. It is ridiculous. I wonder what his supporters feel about this gaffe moment. This is absurd and makes me feel uncomfortable. Okay I feel better, thanks for letting me vent. I think tomorrow I will go to Harborview for coffee and a bagel with lox, cream cheese, onion, lettuce and tomato. I will wish Rick Well. I will not have a cookie because Jennifer Buchanan and Marc Delmonico were going to steal me one. That cookie could have a very high price.
Steve, Steve; are you really going to refuse me this simple guilty pleasure? 🙁
I am going if I can get there by 10:30 am. Maybe if you are available you can join me. I really do want to wish Rick well even if he has no clue who I am. I loved his bus during his last campaign.
I will be there! Signed, Caughtwithhandincookiejar
*** Yo Lennie, in your day-to-day travels and conversations with folk do you ever get questions or comments on your usual OIB bloggers “good or bad?” And who do you seem to get the most feedback about in general? It would be great to match the OIB blogging style and overall personality with a known cartoon or comic book type character on special occasions or news subjects on OIB, no? *** HERE WE GO! ***
Actually Mojo, I receive inquiries about posters often. Maybe we can join forces for a comic book: Welcome To Zombie Land.
*** GOOD LUCK, RICK! ***
I have to admit, the “ministry” scares me a bit. I hope he didn’t just shoot himself in the foot. I do still support him though and think he will shake things up in Bridgeport! I also believe he would be out driving a snowplow during a blizzard and know from personal experience he knocked on neighbors’ doors during Sandy to be sure we were all right. He believes in personal responsibility and less government and I believe that is the backbone of his “ministry!” He is a good man, through and through.
The personal responsibility and less govt bit I find hypocritical considering he benefited from govt programs himself.
I don’t think he wants to eliminate government programs, he just wants them to be used as they are ‘designed,’ not as a way of life. I don’t think anyone would want to limit aid to those who need it, the elderly, the infirm etc. etc.
Steve,
Glad to see I was missed. Sorry for being late to the party.
Rick also has my full support, although I do agree sometimes the way he presents his social vision can detract from the message a bit. He cares deeply about all people and believes if government got out of the way, the pathway to success would be easier.
He understands restoring fiscal sanity and improving the economic standing for all residents is truly the best social program government can offer. He will speak out against the majority mob that walks lockstep with the machine and at the very least provide some dissenting voice in the hopes of giving the ethical members of the council some pause before casting their vote.
Joe Larcheveque, of course you were missed. Jennifer, Delmonico and Phantom have been holding down the conservative fort. I am afraid Ron Mackey has been slamming them as well as myself and your favorite BRG. I know Rick is a nice fellow, I am going to eat breakfast tomorrow at Harborview. My luck, he will not be there to receive my well wishes should he decide to run. He may in fact be looking to start his new Ministry in Moales’ Mega church. That is where the money is at.
Steven,
I hardly think you, Ron and BRG are slamming us. In your mind maybe, lay off the cheap stuff my friend. Anyway, I can’t believe you are going to Harborview and I am out of town. We need a face-to-face debate … kind of like the Thrilla in Manila! Enjoy your breakfast!
Marc Delmonico, why is Rick Torres hiding?
Maybe he is getting surgery to have the foot removed from his mouth … I hear it is very delicate surgery!
Ron, I can tell you are a lib, you are so miserable. Do you ever smile? I do not think Rick is hiding, he does own a business, so think about this fact … maybe he is working? Catering a party, earning money, making a living … got it! I know Rick, and I know he does not fear debating ideas against your tired old liberal divide and lie.
Ron, if memory serves me, you are very selective on what questions you deign to answer, right? You also do not take up invitations to meet or talk on the phone. Just plain ignore them.
So when someone fails to answer your call, why do you call it hiding? Is it because you are in hiding yourself, and have been for some time, unless it is something on which you are a self-proclaimed expert? I am still open for that meeting, and I will wait to hold forth on any quoted comments alleged to Rick Torres until I understand the full statements and context. No use getting upset over something off the wall or tangential, right? Time will tell.
Marc Delmonico, he doesn’t sound like a good candidate based on how busy he is according to you. Why are you making judgment on me, I smile every time I read comments by guys like you drinking that right-wing Kool-Aid. Your party is turning into a southern states all white male party right in front of you. You need to reach out and touch someone.
John Marshall Lee, with all due respect, I am not really questioning you but your candidate. He has put his name out there to run for elected office so it’s open season on any candidate when they make a statement like those of Rick Torres. I do mean with all due respect to you.
Marc, your wing of the GOP is the reason the GOP never gets elected to anything in Bridgeport. People in Bridgeport, even most registered Republicans, don’t drink your brand of tea. Rick had one good shot at Mayor when he ran against Fabrizi but he blew it when he started with the Tea Party stuff. I will grant you a lot of people like him personally. And some of them are liberals who don’t care for his viewpoints.
Thanks, Marc. I will enjoy! You just do not want to steal that cookie. You are a good man.
Steven,
I steal the cookie, get arrested, trial; you, BRG and Ron Mackey on the jury … next … 30 to life! One less Republican for you to battle.
Marc Delmonico, not me; I believe in redemption.
Ron, wow we do agree on something … Redemption! Now that we agree, Delmonico is not required when we debate.
Yippee!!!
What in God’s name is Torres referring to with this ‘Ministry’ stuff? For a guy who doesn’t get elected a lot, he should watch his public statements.
I just read his post. Keep flippin’ eggs, Ricky. You do the double egg with bacon and cheese on a toasted Portuguese roll better than anybody else on earth. Politically you need work. Lots of work.
yahooy, couldn’t have put it better.
Best of luck to Rick!
This is the world of politics, folks, and Rick is used to it. I don’t find his statements to be any more of a public gaffe than Moales’ “millionaire” statement, or Finch thinking he could actually convince folks he had no idea Ricci had a relationship with Moutinho.
At least Rick’s heart is in the right place and he has the courage to face all of his critics again and again (some on this blog) in the name of the good fight.
If we want to flush out the corruption, we really, really, really need to find a way to stand behind those who have the stomach to run for public office, even if they are not clones of us.
Don’t misunderstand me. I would vote for him five times. It’s frustrating when a good prospect shoots himself in his double latte.
Well yahooy, one way to let things that deserve to die a natural death is to stop calling attention to it. I mean no disrespect here.
MUSTANG SALLY, YOU ARE MANY THINGS … NAIVE IS NOT ONE OF THEM. THIS BLOG WILL LET IT GO BUT THE DEMS WILL NOT.
In the same elections or different elections? After all, this is Bridgeport 🙂
yahooy, you are correct about the BEC on toasted Portuguese, but Antonio is the real artist at the grill. And you are right about keeping the message on target.
Any candidate for City Council can keep their eye on:
*Failure to direct the administration to have timely financial reports that provide at least as much info as two years ago so oversight can be done. (No oversight this past year and no caring about balanced budget or not!)
*Ignoring “ghost employees” for the 2012 and 2013 budgets at least and therefore spending all of those millions on what?
*Failing to pursue their own Ordinance from 10 years ago on purchasing procedure in multiple ways. Internal auditor? NO Annual purchasing report? NO Triennial audit? NO Excuses?? NONE.
*Conflicts of interest … blindness to even the appearance of the state of their legislative body.
*Stipends? Reporting? Changed from a reimbursement system to what? When? How? Taxpayer funds supplied and no accountability reciprocated.
*Consent calendar use to stifle public revelations.
*Failure to use technology to make more City info Open to public in Transparent manner.
And when Council representatives are so busy supporting the administration they close their eyes and shut their ears to listening to voters and only open their mouths to spout “the facts” provided by the administration that they have no agency or ability to check because they fail to employ professional legislative assistance?
Am I too negative. Not at all. These are a few of the topics on which I have posted along with Andy Fardy for the past several years. They are the grist for any City Council candidate this fall to call to the attention of voters who are dissatisfied with taxes going up and financial ratings going down along with the last bucks in the City fund balance! What do you think? Time for a changing of the guard? Time will tell.
Is this a record for logs on a single issue?
[ed: No, not yet. This one is in third place so far.]
Lennie and Ray, what were the other two subjects, please? And the time periods for the postings? From responses to the subject of City financial issues, I will make a guess the logs were not about City financial issues. And if the City were to find itself fiscally in extremis, would even that prove a subject of discussion for readers? Time will tell.
[ed: This posting has now climbed to second place.
The posting with the most replies currently is
/foster-pushes-ballot-access-issue-claims-tea-party-tactics-by-finch-cronies/
from Aug 20, 2011. The third-place posting is
/community-group-forms-political-action-committee-walker-serves-as-treasurer/
from July 7, 2013.]
I just want to thank Rick Torres for taking the time to share his vision for the City. It was great meeting other OIB bloggers. Jennifer Buchanan, thank you for that awesome cookie. I cannot believe in all my years in Bridgeport, I have never gone to Harborview market. What a very pleasant surprise and a very comfortable and inviting environment. I enjoyed my visit and would urge Black Rock to consider Rick Torres.
Meet me there anytime! It was a great exchange of ideas.
Detroit Bankrupt: Kevyn Orr Asks Federal Judge To Place City Under Chapter 9 Bankruptcy Protection
Cleveland and Bridgeport CT are next.
Picture this. Bridgeport CT 1990–Bridgeport Mayor attempts to declare bankruptcy. Moran, my friend, was ahead of her time only in this respect. The residents were not educated, the unions were too strong and Weicker’s answer was raise the taxes. Moran did not want to as she felt another tax increase would be the final nail in the coffin. How silly she was, Ganim danced into office and Weicker now funneled money to the City. His corrupt administration made us forget about the bankruptcy bid and here we are, 23 years later and we are still in financial ruin and how many tax increases have we had since the first woman elected to office as a Republican without Republican support? Apparently Mary, you could have raised the taxes. You may have survived another term.
Everybody is entitled to their opinions. That’s part of what makes the world go around. The “bottom line” is Rick will win one of the two City Council seats in Black Rock by campaigning on the failed record of the current Council and the Finch Administration, which this Council is a mushroom to. Rick’s soon to be announced partner will also likely win. This is just the beginning of real change in Bridgeport.